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If you’re looking for a fun, creative, and delicious way to serve meatloaf, these Brown Sugar Glazed Meatloaf Cupcakes are the answer! Made with seasoned ground beef, a sweet and tangy glaze, and baked in a cupcake pan, these mini meatloaves are perfect for portion control, kids, or just adding a little fun to dinner. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fun & Creative: A playful twist on traditional meatloaf.
- Perfect Portions: Individual servings make it easy to serve and enjoy.
- Sweet & Savory: The brown sugar glaze adds a delicious touch.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids love the “cupcake” presentation!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make these tasty meatloaf cupcakes:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion (diced into small pieces)
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 3/4 cup plus 3 tablespoons Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons brown sugar (divided)
- 1/3 cup or 1/2 cup ketchup (plus 5 tablespoons for the glaze)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more for sprinkling)
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (plus more for sprinkling)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spray a cupcake pan with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Sauté the Onion
- Heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium-low heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 6 minutes. Set aside.
3. Make the Meatloaf Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, 1/4 cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, and the cooked onion mixture.
- Mix until fully combined.
4. Assemble the Cupcakes
- Use an ice cream scoop to portion the meatloaf mixture into the prepared cupcake pan.
5. Make the Glaze
- In a medium bowl, mix the 1/3 cup or 1/2 cup ketchup and 5 tablespoons brown sugar until smooth.
- Spoon the glaze over the top of each meatloaf cupcake.
6. Bake
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes, or until the meatloaf cupcakes are cooked through.
7. Serve & Enjoy
- Let the cupcakes cool for 5 minutes, then remove them from the pan and serve warm.
Tips for the Best Meatloaf Cupcakes
- Use Lean Ground Beef: This helps prevent the cupcakes from shrinking too much.
- Add Veggies: Stir in finely diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the meatloaf mixture for a kick.
- Double the Recipe: These cupcakes freeze well, so make a big batch for meal prep!
Serving Ideas
- With Mashed Potatoes: Serve with a side of mashed potatoes for a classic comfort meal.
- For Parties: These are perfect for parties or potlucks—fun and easy to eat!
- As a Kid-Friendly Meal: Let the kids help assemble the cupcakes for a fun cooking activity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken works well for a lighter option.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Can I freeze these cupcakes?
Yes! Bake, cool, and freeze the cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
What if I don’t have Italian breadcrumbs?
You can use plain breadcrumbs and add 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning.
Why This Recipe is a Game-Changer
These Brown Sugar Glazed Meatloaf Cupcakes are the ultimate fun and flavorful twist on traditional meatloaf. They’re quick to make, easy to customize, and perfect for any occasion.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a creative, delicious, and kid-friendly meal that’s sure to impress, these Meatloaf Cupcakes are the answer. Give them a try and let me know how they turn out!
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